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New Firmware release enables the Pod to connect as a real-time BLE foot pod

Wish you could get pace and distance on your GPS watch when running indoors? Want to join a virtual running group like Zwift Run or RunSocial without spending the $60+ on a compatible foot pod? What if you could see accurate, foot-based cadence on your watch?

On July 13, 2017, Milestone Sports released new Firmware, giving MilestonePod users the option to connect in real-time to a compatible app or watch. The feature follows the standard BLE profile that includes cadence, stride length, pace, distance and duration. However, not all apps or watches can show these available metrics in real-time.

The minimum requirements:You will need the New MilestonePod running tracker (left, launched August 2016) and a fitness app or watch that supports 3rd party foot pod data via Bluetooth Smart (also called BLE or Bluetooth 4.0). Devices that are ANT+™ will not be compatible. See compatibility list below.

The New MilestonePods are already built real-time capable. Users just need the new Firmware to enable this feature.

Even after downloading the new, real-time Firmware, users should continue to sync their Pods to the MilestonePod App to see all their gait metrics, performance data, shoe life, Run Log and data over time.

A sincere thank you to our real time beta testers! This spring, our beta group was over 1,000 runners strong. Their dedication and feedback over a number of versions made this launch possible!

NOTE: This list is probably not exhaustive. As long as the app or watch supports 3rd party foot pod data via Bluetooth Smart, and you have downloaded our real-time Firmware, you should be all set! If you use your Pod in real time with an app or watch not on the list, please let us know.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the new Firmware be available? It will release at 7:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time on July 13, 2017.

How do I download the new Firmware? Sync your Pod. You will get a pop-up window in your App saying an update is available. Tap “accept.” As always, when you sync, make sure your Pod is awake and within 30 feet of your device, and your device’s Bluetooth is turned on.

How long will it take to download the new Firmware? It will take anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes, depending on your device’s operating system and hardware, which both affect Bluetooth connectivity.

After I upgrade to the New Firmware, do I have to use the Pod in real-time?
No. Everyone can (and should!) continue to sync their Pod to the MilestonePod App after each run.

I am part of the beta group. Will I still need to download the Firmware? No. You already have the new firmware and will not see the pop-up window alert.

I did not get the pop-up window saying new Firmware was available. Why?There are a handful of users that already have the new firmware, such as beta testers and others that received an early release from our tech team (for various reasons).

I got an error message part way through the Firmware update. Try this then sync again: 1) Take out the Pod’s battery, wait 2-3 minutes, re-insert the battery. 2) Turn off your device’s Bluetooth and turn it back on. If an error persists, please send us a note and we will get back to you right away: support@milestonepod.com

How do I know the upgrade fully installed?
On your next sync, if you do not get the pop-up window saying you have an upgrade available, then you are all set!

Can you add more apps and watches to the compatible list?
Compatibility is not up to us. It is up to the app and watch makers. The app or watch needs to be built to accept 3rd party external sensors (via BLE). The Pod can send out the data, but the other end needs to be able to receive it and have a place on the screen for the user to see it.

I am researching my watch’s specs. What do I look for? Look for Bluetooth Smart support of 3rd party external sensors, specifically foot pods. Some watches will be Bluetooth Smart, but not accept 3rd party foot pod data. Also, it may be Bluetooth Smart to a phone, but still not accept foot pod data. Note: Bluetooth Smart,BLE and Bluetooth 4.0 all refer to the same communication standard.

I have a V2 Pod. Can my Pod be used in real-time? No. The V2 Pod (inserts into a rubber holder) was not built with real-time capabilities. Although you will not get the pop-up window saying an update is available, your V2 Pod will still work and is still supported by Milestone Sports and the current MilestonePod App.

If you own a V2 Pod and are interested in real-time, please send an email to support@milestonepod.com for more information about upgrading to the New Pod version. And, thanks for being a long-time Pod user!

The MilestonePod in use as a real-time foot pod.

Posted:

Jul 12, 2017

Author: Nancy Rowe

Nancy is the VP of Marketing and Communications at Milestone Sports. She can be reached at nancy@milestonepod.com.

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